Christmas in Waterford, Kill and Castleknock- lovley presents and food!!
Gigs in retirement homes, a swing/jazz Sinatra type set for new years eve and a gig in the dew drop all to come. I did my first wedding reception last week.
NOT excercising though. Watch this space for new years resolution...
Monday, December 28, 2009
Monday, November 30, 2009
So what now Fatty?
Its cold. Its nearly December. Its dark when I wake up so i don't get up and then when I do its dark again.
Hard to get motivated so I need a goal to focus on. I am eating a lot and not really burning it off. Then the mmood suffers and I torture insects and cats.
Went for a run today and lasted 1/2 hour before I had to walk. Crazy!
So heres the plan.
I want to do a 10k run in below 45 mins. My last 10k race was 54 mins I think, that was 5 years ago.
My mother bought me some lovely winter tights and assorted running gear that makes me look like a modern day jogging Robin Hood. So I will put it to use.
I will chronicle my efforts in one weekly 10k run and 2 or 3 shorter sessions with circuits and sprints.
So DAY 1 was 7.5 kms in 1 hour. Shouldn't be hard to beat! I am still hopeful of playing ski season in Austria in Jan (getting a lot of skiing done too) and running a Marathon in Paris or Rome in the spring.
Hard to get motivated so I need a goal to focus on. I am eating a lot and not really burning it off. Then the mmood suffers and I torture insects and cats.
Went for a run today and lasted 1/2 hour before I had to walk. Crazy!
So heres the plan.
I want to do a 10k run in below 45 mins. My last 10k race was 54 mins I think, that was 5 years ago.
My mother bought me some lovely winter tights and assorted running gear that makes me look like a modern day jogging Robin Hood. So I will put it to use.
I will chronicle my efforts in one weekly 10k run and 2 or 3 shorter sessions with circuits and sprints.
So DAY 1 was 7.5 kms in 1 hour. Shouldn't be hard to beat! I am still hopeful of playing ski season in Austria in Jan (getting a lot of skiing done too) and running a Marathon in Paris or Rome in the spring.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Time revision and postmortem
Well my official time was less than my real time cos there was a 7 minute lag from start of the race to the time I crossed the startline (8000 people ahead of me)
Official time was 4 hours 36 mins and 35 seconds.
My weight upon completion was 75 kgs, and my legs were like bricks and mortar.
It is 2 days later now and I feel fine and want to run again! I really enjoyed the training, and I'd say if I hadn't smoked or drank much, I could have easily done a sub 4 hour time, who knows probably sub 3.30?
I would be very interested in giving up the fags and seeing what difference it makes in another marathon (Paris, Rome, in spring 2010 anyone??!!) , because although I wasn't ever out of breath, maybe the amount of oxygen getting to my muscles isn't what a non smoker gets. Therefore I can't go at a very fast stride. My stamina was fine but I wasn't as fast as I thought I'd be.
My strategy was simple. Run at an easy pace for the first 13 miles and then pick it up if I could and aim for 4.15.
A number of things happened to thwart me on this. I realised that my watch wasn't calibarated exactly and it was saying I was running a faster pace than I was. At 10 miles it said I had 11 and a bit. By the end of the marathon I had run nearly 29 miles according to my watch.
There were pacesetters who were running for 4.30 wth big pink balloons attached. But they were so far from me at the start I never saw them again! This was obviously worrying but I figured they will start fast but then tie up a bit toward the end.
So my strategy was fine- comfortable, and after mile 13 I did pick up the pace for the next 6 or 7 miles- Gill met me at mile 18 and I was happily overtaking runners and feeling very strong.
The distance for mile 22 -26 was nasty for me. My calf wanted to cramp, but thankfully didn't, and my stride became choppy. Having not ran further that 3 hours and 15 mins in training, I find myself finding another hour and a half on my legs and they didn't like that much. I will commend myself for one thing, my mind was strong and there was never even the slightest suggestion from the innerworkings of my mind that i should stop, stretch, not make it etc. The crowds along the way were amazing and the Spar had samba music and dancing outside each of the shops en route. Really picks you up. One guy I was running with for a while was doing the entire marathon backwards. Crazy guy, but he was great fun.
I also stayed relatively steady throughout besides slowing down in the last few miles as I hung in there and tried to enjoy the day as opposed to beat a time.
Lessons learned: Take the marathon in 3 mile blocks and ensure the pace is correct for each block. This helps the mind focus as well. EG to finish in 4 hours (240 mins) 1 mile should be done in 9 mins 15 seconds. Therefore 3 miles should take less than 28 mins.
Stretch, stretch and stretch before the start. I did a small bit but should have done 1/2 hour to an hour. Yoga would be perfect. I had little niggles in my back for the first 10 miles that I wouldnt have had if the stretching was adequate. damn 9am start!
You need to take the gels ( 3 or 4 during the race) and sip the water constantly. I did this part well.
In training, run for 4 hours, even if it is dead slow. That way the body is used to it and I could accelerate more in the marathon,
The winner was a 19 year old Kenyan. 2 hours 9 minutes. Never did a marathon before either. Bet his blogs not as good as mine though. I'll give him some tips if we meet.
Official time was 4 hours 36 mins and 35 seconds.
My weight upon completion was 75 kgs, and my legs were like bricks and mortar.
It is 2 days later now and I feel fine and want to run again! I really enjoyed the training, and I'd say if I hadn't smoked or drank much, I could have easily done a sub 4 hour time, who knows probably sub 3.30?
I would be very interested in giving up the fags and seeing what difference it makes in another marathon (Paris, Rome, in spring 2010 anyone??!!) , because although I wasn't ever out of breath, maybe the amount of oxygen getting to my muscles isn't what a non smoker gets. Therefore I can't go at a very fast stride. My stamina was fine but I wasn't as fast as I thought I'd be.
My strategy was simple. Run at an easy pace for the first 13 miles and then pick it up if I could and aim for 4.15.
A number of things happened to thwart me on this. I realised that my watch wasn't calibarated exactly and it was saying I was running a faster pace than I was. At 10 miles it said I had 11 and a bit. By the end of the marathon I had run nearly 29 miles according to my watch.
There were pacesetters who were running for 4.30 wth big pink balloons attached. But they were so far from me at the start I never saw them again! This was obviously worrying but I figured they will start fast but then tie up a bit toward the end.
So my strategy was fine- comfortable, and after mile 13 I did pick up the pace for the next 6 or 7 miles- Gill met me at mile 18 and I was happily overtaking runners and feeling very strong.
The distance for mile 22 -26 was nasty for me. My calf wanted to cramp, but thankfully didn't, and my stride became choppy. Having not ran further that 3 hours and 15 mins in training, I find myself finding another hour and a half on my legs and they didn't like that much. I will commend myself for one thing, my mind was strong and there was never even the slightest suggestion from the innerworkings of my mind that i should stop, stretch, not make it etc. The crowds along the way were amazing and the Spar had samba music and dancing outside each of the shops en route. Really picks you up. One guy I was running with for a while was doing the entire marathon backwards. Crazy guy, but he was great fun.
I also stayed relatively steady throughout besides slowing down in the last few miles as I hung in there and tried to enjoy the day as opposed to beat a time.
Lessons learned: Take the marathon in 3 mile blocks and ensure the pace is correct for each block. This helps the mind focus as well. EG to finish in 4 hours (240 mins) 1 mile should be done in 9 mins 15 seconds. Therefore 3 miles should take less than 28 mins.
Stretch, stretch and stretch before the start. I did a small bit but should have done 1/2 hour to an hour. Yoga would be perfect. I had little niggles in my back for the first 10 miles that I wouldnt have had if the stretching was adequate. damn 9am start!
You need to take the gels ( 3 or 4 during the race) and sip the water constantly. I did this part well.
In training, run for 4 hours, even if it is dead slow. That way the body is used to it and I could accelerate more in the marathon,
The winner was a 19 year old Kenyan. 2 hours 9 minutes. Never did a marathon before either. Bet his blogs not as good as mine though. I'll give him some tips if we meet.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Marathon Day! The culmination of March to October!
I have...drum roll....completed...cymbals...the Dublin Marathon 2009....cowbell...in a time of 4 hours 42 mins! Whoohoo!
Full report to follow at a slightly later time (when I can think straight) but I am injury and pain free and very happy with my performance.
Beautiful sunny day although the 9am start was interesting for my physiology and aversion to mornings!
Full report to follow at a slightly later time (when I can think straight) but I am injury and pain free and very happy with my performance.
Beautiful sunny day although the 9am start was interesting for my physiology and aversion to mornings!
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Preparation and Pasta!
Less than 24 hours left. Getting a wee tingle alright.
Currently tucking into a ludicrously big bowl of pasta.
Collected my race number at the RDS yesterday and they have a big oul Expo for the runners there- stalls for every conceivable aid and advice you can imagine. I got a 1/2 hour pre race massage and some energy gels- that should be fine thanks..
Its apparently the 30th anniversary of the Dublin Marathon.
My Body: Feels fine- a little tight in my right calf. Breathing is key, as is rising early. Race starts at 9am. Need to be up and breakfasted at 7. Yuuch
Mind: Very strong. Very confident with training done and am focused on a time 4.15 - 4.30
Preparation: Will lay out my blue running top, shorts and running socks with my Asics Kayunos (faithful pedoservants). Will pack an energy bar to eat before the start of the race. Bring bin liner to wear to keep warm. Will stretch for 15 mins prior to start. Have 3 Gels to ingest, afetr 1 1/2 hours, 2 1/2 hours and 3 1/2 hours.
Finish (assuming I do) change into warm dry gear and eat, eat eat!
See you on the other side!
Currently tucking into a ludicrously big bowl of pasta.
Collected my race number at the RDS yesterday and they have a big oul Expo for the runners there- stalls for every conceivable aid and advice you can imagine. I got a 1/2 hour pre race massage and some energy gels- that should be fine thanks..
Its apparently the 30th anniversary of the Dublin Marathon.
My Body: Feels fine- a little tight in my right calf. Breathing is key, as is rising early. Race starts at 9am. Need to be up and breakfasted at 7. Yuuch
Mind: Very strong. Very confident with training done and am focused on a time 4.15 - 4.30
Preparation: Will lay out my blue running top, shorts and running socks with my Asics Kayunos (faithful pedoservants). Will pack an energy bar to eat before the start of the race. Bring bin liner to wear to keep warm. Will stretch for 15 mins prior to start. Have 3 Gels to ingest, afetr 1 1/2 hours, 2 1/2 hours and 3 1/2 hours.
Finish (assuming I do) change into warm dry gear and eat, eat eat!
See you on the other side!
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Sponsor me for FOCUS Ireland
http://www.focusireland.ie/htm/fundraising/events/showpage.php?pageId=1517
Very simple, click on the link and give a donation. Nice one!!
Very simple, click on the link and give a donation. Nice one!!
Monday, October 19, 2009
Danger Alert: One week to go!!
Jesus- its really happening! One week to go, all the hard work apparently done, so they tell me, (they being training schedule) and I should be well able to do it. So they tell me. Running for Focus Ireland. Collected 200 euro already from my gigs and passing the hat around..
Had a good week of training, but had a little scare too..
On Tuesday after playing tennis, badminton an soccer, I felt a little tweak just below my right hip.
I rested on Weds and ran 12 miles, a gorgeous run around the perimeter, in grass and autumnal woods in the Phoenix park. There are lakes there, and I also met a Stag. Big antlers. We just looked at each other from about 10 feet away. Very cool. Hip was Ok, not too many problems, I did some sprint training up any hills I could find for extra power
Friday, I played soccer and the extra power really showed, I winning balls and beating players that normally would beat me so very happy.
Saturday, as usual 4 nightly gigs this week, so it was a nice 3 or 4 miler with push ups and sit ups every minute of running. Really good workout and again just looking to improve overall strength.
Serious drinking on Sunday. Lock in, Guiness for strength!
Monday- just some light stretching today and push ups etc- and I'll play Badminton and soccer Tuesday and go for a 5 miler on Thursday and nothing just rest and stretvhing until THE BIG TEST.
Got my race number and it is the number of the beast, and the number of the beast is 11888.
Had a good week of training, but had a little scare too..
On Tuesday after playing tennis, badminton an soccer, I felt a little tweak just below my right hip.
I rested on Weds and ran 12 miles, a gorgeous run around the perimeter, in grass and autumnal woods in the Phoenix park. There are lakes there, and I also met a Stag. Big antlers. We just looked at each other from about 10 feet away. Very cool. Hip was Ok, not too many problems, I did some sprint training up any hills I could find for extra power
Friday, I played soccer and the extra power really showed, I winning balls and beating players that normally would beat me so very happy.
Saturday, as usual 4 nightly gigs this week, so it was a nice 3 or 4 miler with push ups and sit ups every minute of running. Really good workout and again just looking to improve overall strength.
Serious drinking on Sunday. Lock in, Guiness for strength!
Monday- just some light stretching today and push ups etc- and I'll play Badminton and soccer Tuesday and go for a 5 miler on Thursday and nothing just rest and stretvhing until THE BIG TEST.
Got my race number and it is the number of the beast, and the number of the beast is 11888.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Two weeks to go...
What will I do with this blog in two weeks? Will my newly found writing passion be extinguisged as fast as my newly developed muscles will atrophy?
Enough hypothesising and conjecture and down to the business of the blog.
No long run this week, instead I played tennis (1 1/2 hours) badminton singles (1 hour) and soccer ( 1 hour) all today, so that should be Ok.
Played Dad twice this week in tennis. He still has it. Very tough to beat, I bet him 3 sets to 0 the first time but today, I won the first set on a tie break 7-6 but then he humilitates me by winning the next set 6-0. Strewth. We had no more time for more but I'll get vengeance next week. The watch said you run about 3 or 4 miles in 3 sets of tennis. Not bad! He said I am as fast around the court as he has ever seen me. Its true, I'm a beast at the moment!
One ten miler to go before the big race. Gonna calm down on the drink a bit, just have a couple instead of many so I can give it my best.
Enough hypothesising and conjecture and down to the business of the blog.
No long run this week, instead I played tennis (1 1/2 hours) badminton singles (1 hour) and soccer ( 1 hour) all today, so that should be Ok.
Played Dad twice this week in tennis. He still has it. Very tough to beat, I bet him 3 sets to 0 the first time but today, I won the first set on a tie break 7-6 but then he humilitates me by winning the next set 6-0. Strewth. We had no more time for more but I'll get vengeance next week. The watch said you run about 3 or 4 miles in 3 sets of tennis. Not bad! He said I am as fast around the court as he has ever seen me. Its true, I'm a beast at the moment!
One ten miler to go before the big race. Gonna calm down on the drink a bit, just have a couple instead of many so I can give it my best.
Sunday, October 4, 2009
The 21 miler, it is done.
All is well. Just back home now from the longest training run I will do before the big test itself. After a busy weekend of gigs- Thurs (Anglers Rest), Fri (Kildrought Inn), Sat (brasserie 15) and Sun (Rush bar) I took it very easy on the excerise- just a 4 miler on monday, Badminton and Footie on Tuesday and a quick 2 mile around the block with Gill on Saturday. I was feeling pretty glum on Saturday, probably as my body was expecting excerise but I wanted to drink heavily most of the week. I won out, and I though my body would get its revenge...
But, no such luck! decided to run to Rathcoole from my apartment in the city centre (10.5 miles) and return taking in the vista of the N7 and the red cow roundabout and Inchicore. Stunning. Especially at 8.30 - 11.45 Sunday evening. I must have looked quite the crazy fellow.
This took roughly 3.15 hours and was actually quite easy, no physical or respiratory discomfort at all. As the body got into a rhythm after 8 miles or so, it would have been harder to stop!
So 3 weeks to go and the nice news is that the training begins to 'taper' now and I'll just do some faster short runs. I think a sub 4.30 time is well within my grasp.
EDIT: had fish and chips, cup of tea and 3 fags with much relish to stock up on the 3,000 calories cruelly stolen from me by the N7
But, no such luck! decided to run to Rathcoole from my apartment in the city centre (10.5 miles) and return taking in the vista of the N7 and the red cow roundabout and Inchicore. Stunning. Especially at 8.30 - 11.45 Sunday evening. I must have looked quite the crazy fellow.
This took roughly 3.15 hours and was actually quite easy, no physical or respiratory discomfort at all. As the body got into a rhythm after 8 miles or so, it would have been harder to stop!
So 3 weeks to go and the nice news is that the training begins to 'taper' now and I'll just do some faster short runs. I think a sub 4.30 time is well within my grasp.
EDIT: had fish and chips, cup of tea and 3 fags with much relish to stock up on the 3,000 calories cruelly stolen from me by the N7
Sunday, September 27, 2009
A Time to Reflect
Ok, so excatly 4 weeks to the big M. After the Uber -successful half marathon, I have a little rumination before bed time with some cocoa- pass the pipe and slippers, ahhh- so...:
What have we learned so far?
What have we learned so far?
- Slowly building up distance in a disciplined fashion is wise and fruitful, the weekly long run is key
- Listen to your body. Do other activites too to build up core. (My example, sit ups, ju jitsu, football)
- I think I can run the damn thing without cutting back on fags, drink and other recreational activities. I didn't think this would be possible a few months ago. It may not be, mind!
- There is actually a buzz from this madness, you do feel good after the runs.
- The mind is powerful, and staying relaxed on your run, not tensing anything and smiling outside and inside is critical
- Doing the marathon, my speed will need to be on or under the 10 minute per mile mark until after 20 miles, and if I'm able, I can up the tempo.
- I will need to do 2 more long runs before Oct 26th and D Day- one next week, around 20 miles and the week after, around 16.
Saturday, September 26, 2009
The Half-Marathon race, Phoenix Park, 26th Sept 2009
The stage was set, Europes largest public park hosting a record 8,000 runners in the park hoping to complete the 13.2 mile distance.
The day was sunny and warm, better weather than we have had most of the summer. People looked radiant in their lycra as they went through the stretches pre race. The announcer kept people entertained by slagging, encouraging and disparaging the entrants.
A few months ago, I had cajoled a friend of mine, Eoin Lynch to run the race series- and although I was in Clifden, he was true to his word and ran the 5 mile and 10 mile earlier in the summer. I was delighted to have a companion to run with- although he was aghast I had already run 16 miles in training!
My body felt fine, the only thing niggling at me was it was 10am. I got up at 8am which is an astounding feat all by itself. I had never ran in the morning before! Had cereal, actimel and sausages and was hungry for action.
The first 6 miles we spent chatting and joking at a fairly leisurely pace- we had joined the 3rd wave of runners at the start- those who expected to run in over 2 hours. There was a lot of bodies around us and the sun was beaming down.
Then, something strange happened. I started running faster. Eoin kept with me for a mile or so but i couldn't stop accelerating- I felt I was on my own special escalator which propelled me past everyone! I munched a vitamin tablet, stayed relaxed and kept up the pace- suddenly I started thinking about finishing within 2 hours - and by mile 12, my legs were feeling heavy as I was running at 10k pace then but I gritted my teeth and kept going. The crowd toward the end were fantastic and I managed a 100 metre sprint (felt like that) to go past the finish line, much to the amusement of the supporting mob. Not sure of the official time, but it was damn close to 2.00 hours. Eoin came in about 5 mins later, very very sore indeed! But he made it, and raised 500 yo yos for Aware.
Got my goody bag, refulled and ate, and made my way 2 miles back to my car. Definately on a high- my training plan is totally working. Had a cigarette in the car. Drinks tonight!!
My sister is simultaenously doing a 100k walk today, sheesus- they don't stop for the night- it will take over 24 hours and walking continuosly/eating in the dark. Crazy lady. For charity though..
EDIT: Official time and placing below- didn''t quite nail the 2 hours but a valiant effort as I decided to try and hit it with 6 miles to go- next time so !
Overall Placing Time
The day was sunny and warm, better weather than we have had most of the summer. People looked radiant in their lycra as they went through the stretches pre race. The announcer kept people entertained by slagging, encouraging and disparaging the entrants.
A few months ago, I had cajoled a friend of mine, Eoin Lynch to run the race series- and although I was in Clifden, he was true to his word and ran the 5 mile and 10 mile earlier in the summer. I was delighted to have a companion to run with- although he was aghast I had already run 16 miles in training!
My body felt fine, the only thing niggling at me was it was 10am. I got up at 8am which is an astounding feat all by itself. I had never ran in the morning before! Had cereal, actimel and sausages and was hungry for action.
The first 6 miles we spent chatting and joking at a fairly leisurely pace- we had joined the 3rd wave of runners at the start- those who expected to run in over 2 hours. There was a lot of bodies around us and the sun was beaming down.
Then, something strange happened. I started running faster. Eoin kept with me for a mile or so but i couldn't stop accelerating- I felt I was on my own special escalator which propelled me past everyone! I munched a vitamin tablet, stayed relaxed and kept up the pace- suddenly I started thinking about finishing within 2 hours - and by mile 12, my legs were feeling heavy as I was running at 10k pace then but I gritted my teeth and kept going. The crowd toward the end were fantastic and I managed a 100 metre sprint (felt like that) to go past the finish line, much to the amusement of the supporting mob. Not sure of the official time, but it was damn close to 2.00 hours. Eoin came in about 5 mins later, very very sore indeed! But he made it, and raised 500 yo yos for Aware.
Got my goody bag, refulled and ate, and made my way 2 miles back to my car. Definately on a high- my training plan is totally working. Had a cigarette in the car. Drinks tonight!!
My sister is simultaenously doing a 100k walk today, sheesus- they don't stop for the night- it will take over 24 hours and walking continuosly/eating in the dark. Crazy lady. For charity though..
EDIT: Official time and placing below- didn''t quite nail the 2 hours but a valiant effort as I decided to try and hit it with 6 miles to go- next time so !
Overall Placing Time
| 3578 | Rowland Smithers (No. 270) | Dublin | 02:01:31 |
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Takin it easy, but that wasnt the plan!
Friday, did a 4 mile run- then played the Kildrought Inn in Celbridge. I put some video of that on You Tube. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nZ1DMuxkXmc
Two other vids on there too. Successful gig, we were asked back for 3 other dates
Saturday: Basic gym work and a nice piano gig in Brasserie 15. Party in Kill with Paul McIntyre.
Sunday: So hungover. Lord of the Rings all day
Monday: Oops. Nothing
Tuesday: Badminton and Football
Wednesday: Going to Ju Jistsu with Gillian for intense pain. Its a really intense workout- the first hour is all stretches and serious Ab work and then theres some technique like james bond rolling and tumbles and wriggly motions. Half hour for fighting at the end where you try to break someones leg or arm. Sportingly, of course
Two other vids on there too. Successful gig, we were asked back for 3 other dates
Saturday: Basic gym work and a nice piano gig in Brasserie 15. Party in Kill with Paul McIntyre.
Sunday: So hungover. Lord of the Rings all day
Monday: Oops. Nothing
Tuesday: Badminton and Football
Wednesday: Going to Ju Jistsu with Gillian for intense pain. Its a really intense workout- the first hour is all stretches and serious Ab work and then theres some technique like james bond rolling and tumbles and wriggly motions. Half hour for fighting at the end where you try to break someones leg or arm. Sportingly, of course
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
55 kms covered last week. Lets see how many this week.
Yes, that's true. Need to build up the endurance and these next few weeks will be hard going before tapering off the training.
Monday: rest. important after long run. did some cycling doing jobs in town though.
Tuesday: Badminton and Football. 8k says my watch.
Wednesday: 10 kms run in my local village of Kill. It is a 6 mile loop collequially known as 'around the wall'. This is a lovely area which encapsualates the backroads of Kill and its hidden demesne's, estates and millionaires gated dwellings. I put on my best shorts. Took me 45 mins. And there were two ghastly climbs. I remember doing a 10 k run in the phoenix park about 5 years ago in 55 mins so I'm definately going in the right direction. Bit uglier now though. Thats 18k so far this week.
Monday: rest. important after long run. did some cycling doing jobs in town though.
Tuesday: Badminton and Football. 8k says my watch.
Wednesday: 10 kms run in my local village of Kill. It is a 6 mile loop collequially known as 'around the wall'. This is a lovely area which encapsualates the backroads of Kill and its hidden demesne's, estates and millionaires gated dwellings. I put on my best shorts. Took me 45 mins. And there were two ghastly climbs. I remember doing a 10 k run in the phoenix park about 5 years ago in 55 mins so I'm definately going in the right direction. Bit uglier now though. Thats 18k so far this week.
Sunday, September 13, 2009
The 16 miler is complete
Ow.
Really sore. But happy.
16 miles (26 kms) completed in just under 3 hours. 2000 calories, 25,000 steps. Equivilant of running home to Kill.
Ran from city centre to Clontarf, up the coast road and into St Annes park, around the park and back through Fairview, Marino, Drumcondra, Glasnevin and Phibsboro.
In all fairness it was a beautiful hot day, so I ran topless much to the delight of everyone I encountered. The amino acid gel food thingy was ingested at 13 miles and made a big difference to my mood and energy level.
Gill ran me a bath and I have had a pizza and some fags and two beers and I feel ok now. What surprises me is that I was never ever out of breath or close to it. Legs and feet do start getting sore though..
Two more major runs before the marathon- one 18 mile and one 20 mile. The thought makes me less than excited but I know I can do this now and I'll need to suffer a bit before I taper off the training in October.
Ciao!
Really sore. But happy.
16 miles (26 kms) completed in just under 3 hours. 2000 calories, 25,000 steps. Equivilant of running home to Kill.
Ran from city centre to Clontarf, up the coast road and into St Annes park, around the park and back through Fairview, Marino, Drumcondra, Glasnevin and Phibsboro.
In all fairness it was a beautiful hot day, so I ran topless much to the delight of everyone I encountered. The amino acid gel food thingy was ingested at 13 miles and made a big difference to my mood and energy level.
Gill ran me a bath and I have had a pizza and some fags and two beers and I feel ok now. What surprises me is that I was never ever out of breath or close to it. Legs and feet do start getting sore though..
Two more major runs before the marathon- one 18 mile and one 20 mile. The thought makes me less than excited but I know I can do this now and I'll need to suffer a bit before I taper off the training in October.
Ciao!
Saturday, September 12, 2009
The pedometer james bond watch
Just a quick post to detail just how the Sportline Pedometer watch has changed my life.
Perhpas a slight overstatement, but how and ever-
Played football on Tuesday indoor- set up the watch, and in the hour, I ran 6 kms
Thursday, ran from my home to Croke park and down to Dublin port and back down the quays- 9 kms- just under 50 mins
Friday- outdoor football, one hour, the watch proudly boasted I had run 8kms.
Next up is a 16 mile run.. probably take the coastal route through the city- up through Clontarf, Sutton and back..
Half Marathon upcoming end of the month and I know I'll be fine. Still smoking and drinking like Rab C Nesbitt though;-0 Great gig on Friday with Kybosh and tonight I play "all the hits" in Brasserie 15. I'm a middle aged womans dream!
Perhpas a slight overstatement, but how and ever-
Played football on Tuesday indoor- set up the watch, and in the hour, I ran 6 kms
Thursday, ran from my home to Croke park and down to Dublin port and back down the quays- 9 kms- just under 50 mins
Friday- outdoor football, one hour, the watch proudly boasted I had run 8kms.
Next up is a 16 mile run.. probably take the coastal route through the city- up through Clontarf, Sutton and back..
Half Marathon upcoming end of the month and I know I'll be fine. Still smoking and drinking like Rab C Nesbitt though;-0 Great gig on Friday with Kybosh and tonight I play "all the hits" in Brasserie 15. I'm a middle aged womans dream!
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
The Electric Picnic review and Alternative endurance Training
I never guessed I'd be writing a review of Electric picnic in a Marathon Blog, but here goes, as it is an endurance/mayhem marathon of craic.
Friday- Got into the festival already in great spirits- had a 8 mile run the day before, so guilt free.
Pitched my Quickpitch tent which leaps gleefully from it bag into a tent in 10 seconds and proceeded to imbue as much chemicals and buckfast as is humanly possible. MGMT and their song 'Electric Feel' were a highlight as was Orbitals set which was just crazy on the main stage. The body and Soul arena was a a great setting for a bit of chill time and spent the rest of the morning visiting other tents and making friend with what were random people. No sleep at all and straight into...
Saturday- in retrospect, my body needed sleep as it was quite cold and it felt as if my body were made of hollow wood. 2 guitars joined to my hips with concrete shoes. But I gallantly carried on, accepting my zombie like plight. As most of my friends were worse than me, Itried to help some, like Aido and Lara. I got a massage and saw Noise Control in the amazing Arcadia tent complete with fireballs and really impressed with Explosions in the Sky. Brian Wilson was great for California girls and other classics and Madness had everyone feeling alright. Ate a crumpet. Met up with the less than effervescent Cian in Body and Soul as we chatted to other festival goers. Went back to camp
and met up with Kat and Co. Went to rave in the woods. Awesome setting.
Slept at the ensible hour of 8am until...
Sunday- Awoke to lashing and lashings of ginger beer and trifle. No not really, after 4 hours of delectable sleep I awoke to the thunder of rain on my tent. After silently sobbing, I got my brave face on, and my swimming goggles and put my speakers on full blast to @nothings gonna stop us no, classic 80's cheesy tune by Starship. Made people smile anyways. Real food was on the agenda today after 2 days of madness. Ingested 2 breakfasts and some coffee and straight to body and soul where I booked the lovely masseuse from yesterday. Discovered the Sauna tent and lots of nake boys and girls inside. Sweated green and black. Obtained Ayuvedic massage. Drank Chai. Went back to Sauna. Chatted to naked people. FELT BRAND NEW.
3 hours well spent. Time for Royskopp- brilliant set and bacardi tent after for a bit of festival dancin' and Basement Jaxx rocked the place. As I'd been mainly pure that day, decided to beat the crowds at 4 am and drive home. Couldnt fit tent into bag and walked to wrong car park. Left a bag by mistake and walked to car. Realised car keys were in lost bag. Walked 3 miles back. No bag. Retrace my steps for 4 miles. No bag. Went to welfare and lost property. No bag. Now its 9am and I'm in Stradbally using supervalu phone and ATM so I can get breakfast. Not ahead of the game anymore, but lucklily its a lovely day for walking too much. I set my pedometer and I've already walked 17 kms through slush and sludge. Went to lost property and the cops have got my keys!! The conscientous thief had taken my bag with IPOD, flip camera, torch etc but dumped the keys. Small mercies but I'll take them. Plenty of people to push out of the mud as their vehicles get trapped. Help Kat and Moira dissasemble tent and bring all baggage to car, push more hapless vehicles out of the shit and finally make way home by 2pm. Still no sleep. Want a pint, have 4 in Pifko and thats officially it. Must have walked a marathon over the 3 days and feelin OK today!
Friday- Got into the festival already in great spirits- had a 8 mile run the day before, so guilt free.
Pitched my Quickpitch tent which leaps gleefully from it bag into a tent in 10 seconds and proceeded to imbue as much chemicals and buckfast as is humanly possible. MGMT and their song 'Electric Feel' were a highlight as was Orbitals set which was just crazy on the main stage. The body and Soul arena was a a great setting for a bit of chill time and spent the rest of the morning visiting other tents and making friend with what were random people. No sleep at all and straight into...
Saturday- in retrospect, my body needed sleep as it was quite cold and it felt as if my body were made of hollow wood. 2 guitars joined to my hips with concrete shoes. But I gallantly carried on, accepting my zombie like plight. As most of my friends were worse than me, Itried to help some, like Aido and Lara. I got a massage and saw Noise Control in the amazing Arcadia tent complete with fireballs and really impressed with Explosions in the Sky. Brian Wilson was great for California girls and other classics and Madness had everyone feeling alright. Ate a crumpet. Met up with the less than effervescent Cian in Body and Soul as we chatted to other festival goers. Went back to camp
and met up with Kat and Co. Went to rave in the woods. Awesome setting.
Slept at the ensible hour of 8am until...
Sunday- Awoke to lashing and lashings of ginger beer and trifle. No not really, after 4 hours of delectable sleep I awoke to the thunder of rain on my tent. After silently sobbing, I got my brave face on, and my swimming goggles and put my speakers on full blast to @nothings gonna stop us no, classic 80's cheesy tune by Starship. Made people smile anyways. Real food was on the agenda today after 2 days of madness. Ingested 2 breakfasts and some coffee and straight to body and soul where I booked the lovely masseuse from yesterday. Discovered the Sauna tent and lots of nake boys and girls inside. Sweated green and black. Obtained Ayuvedic massage. Drank Chai. Went back to Sauna. Chatted to naked people. FELT BRAND NEW.
3 hours well spent. Time for Royskopp- brilliant set and bacardi tent after for a bit of festival dancin' and Basement Jaxx rocked the place. As I'd been mainly pure that day, decided to beat the crowds at 4 am and drive home. Couldnt fit tent into bag and walked to wrong car park. Left a bag by mistake and walked to car. Realised car keys were in lost bag. Walked 3 miles back. No bag. Retrace my steps for 4 miles. No bag. Went to welfare and lost property. No bag. Now its 9am and I'm in Stradbally using supervalu phone and ATM so I can get breakfast. Not ahead of the game anymore, but lucklily its a lovely day for walking too much. I set my pedometer and I've already walked 17 kms through slush and sludge. Went to lost property and the cops have got my keys!! The conscientous thief had taken my bag with IPOD, flip camera, torch etc but dumped the keys. Small mercies but I'll take them. Plenty of people to push out of the mud as their vehicles get trapped. Help Kat and Moira dissasemble tent and bring all baggage to car, push more hapless vehicles out of the shit and finally make way home by 2pm. Still no sleep. Want a pint, have 4 in Pifko and thats officially it. Must have walked a marathon over the 3 days and feelin OK today!
Thursday, September 3, 2009
The Pre Lectric picnic
That 7 miler was pretty handy actually... did a fast enough pace- just over 1 hour.
Monday- at the Gym, pumping IRON
Tuesday half hour badminton and one hour football.
Weds- took her easy, I had an audition for a restaurant- Brasserie 15 in Castleknock. The feedback was good and the manager was talking about a weekend residency..
Thursday: 7 miles around the park.. lovely- in my brand new running shorts and top.
Friday Saturday and Sunday, I will be enjoying the best festival in Ireland whilst desperately clutching onto my sanity and come up smiling Monday Morning.. adios..
Monday- at the Gym, pumping IRON
Tuesday half hour badminton and one hour football.
Weds- took her easy, I had an audition for a restaurant- Brasserie 15 in Castleknock. The feedback was good and the manager was talking about a weekend residency..
Thursday: 7 miles around the park.. lovely- in my brand new running shorts and top.
Friday Saturday and Sunday, I will be enjoying the best festival in Ireland whilst desperately clutching onto my sanity and come up smiling Monday Morning.. adios..
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Sunday, August 30, 2009
The Waterford Wedding and miracaulous ceremonial long run
Resting up today. My right foot is sore, my legs ache.
But.. I'm FEEELINGGG Good.
Went totally to schedule this week.
Monday- 4 miles with Gill and I did some hurdling over the relatively low black railings in phoenix park. Gill then leapt like an arctic truck, through the air, and onto the railing, causing a bruise as big as a saucer on her left leg. very funny, tragic really.
Tuesday- Football. First time in 6 weeks. Feeling the pace. Got new indoor shoes for soccer and badminton. Caused a nasty skin rip on my right big toe. Wearing plaster now.
Wednesday- went to the zoo!!
Thursday- Gym day! Worked out like a Latvian
Friday- Down in Waterford for Caroline and Marks wedding. Did 2 miles before the church and drank about 10 Guineness during the course of the afters.
Saturday- woke up, Check. Got up Check, No hangover check. Strapped on water bottle and IPOD and did 14 mile loop of Portlaw. Was out for 2 hours and 15 mins and was even sprinting UP hills toward the end! Guiness is good for you. No doubt.
So very much on track. The only concern is the soreness on the outside of my right foot- maybe I am running slightly wonky. Going to get the same pair of trainers and buy Asics Kayonu again this week.
But.. I'm FEEELINGGG Good.
Went totally to schedule this week.
Monday- 4 miles with Gill and I did some hurdling over the relatively low black railings in phoenix park. Gill then leapt like an arctic truck, through the air, and onto the railing, causing a bruise as big as a saucer on her left leg. very funny, tragic really.
Tuesday- Football. First time in 6 weeks. Feeling the pace. Got new indoor shoes for soccer and badminton. Caused a nasty skin rip on my right big toe. Wearing plaster now.
Wednesday- went to the zoo!!
Thursday- Gym day! Worked out like a Latvian
Friday- Down in Waterford for Caroline and Marks wedding. Did 2 miles before the church and drank about 10 Guineness during the course of the afters.
Saturday- woke up, Check. Got up Check, No hangover check. Strapped on water bottle and IPOD and did 14 mile loop of Portlaw. Was out for 2 hours and 15 mins and was even sprinting UP hills toward the end! Guiness is good for you. No doubt.
So very much on track. The only concern is the soreness on the outside of my right foot- maybe I am running slightly wonky. Going to get the same pair of trainers and buy Asics Kayonu again this week.
Monday, August 24, 2009
Au Revoir Clifden, hello Dublin
I'm back to the city where Guiness is made- not continually drank.
Didn't do the 14 miler- did the Sky Road loop again, roughly 12 miles. Still had to walk parts of it due to the hilly nature taking the fizz out of my legs. Not the guiness from the night before. The hills.
Well 12 miles is a decent stretch anyway- 2.30 hours of continuous movement!
So back to Dublin, home cooking and a delectable girlfriend. Played a gig Saturday in Kilnaleck, Cavan. Place should be taken off the map and quarantined in my opinion. 7 people remained to listen to our set and the only one clapping for each somg was the local whore who had eyes for Cian I believe. This is the town that God forgot but we did have the craic anyway as the pub put us up for the night.
Chelsea 3 wins from 3.
Planning a 16 mie run - twice round the perimeter of phoenix park this week. Did a nice 4 miler with Gill today and badminton/football tomorrow.
Registered and paid for the Marathon today so no turning back, no freaking out and no backing down.
Half marathon race comes up at the end of Sept. I should have a 20 mile run done by then though and then begin to taper off. Thats what my schedule says anyway.
Cifden was a great experience. Some weeks I did two gigs most nights. What surprised me was the lack of hangovers, stress and not ever losing my voice. A very good sign. Thinking of playing ski season in Meribel now. Thats before I have convinced young Gill as to the merits of this plan in the snowy alps
Laters
Didn't do the 14 miler- did the Sky Road loop again, roughly 12 miles. Still had to walk parts of it due to the hilly nature taking the fizz out of my legs. Not the guiness from the night before. The hills.
Well 12 miles is a decent stretch anyway- 2.30 hours of continuous movement!
So back to Dublin, home cooking and a delectable girlfriend. Played a gig Saturday in Kilnaleck, Cavan. Place should be taken off the map and quarantined in my opinion. 7 people remained to listen to our set and the only one clapping for each somg was the local whore who had eyes for Cian I believe. This is the town that God forgot but we did have the craic anyway as the pub put us up for the night.
Chelsea 3 wins from 3.
Planning a 16 mie run - twice round the perimeter of phoenix park this week. Did a nice 4 miler with Gill today and badminton/football tomorrow.
Registered and paid for the Marathon today so no turning back, no freaking out and no backing down.
Half marathon race comes up at the end of Sept. I should have a 20 mile run done by then though and then begin to taper off. Thats what my schedule says anyway.
Cifden was a great experience. Some weeks I did two gigs most nights. What surprised me was the lack of hangovers, stress and not ever losing my voice. A very good sign. Thinking of playing ski season in Meribel now. Thats before I have convinced young Gill as to the merits of this plan in the snowy alps
Laters
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
12 miles and Connemara FM
Another week down and my celebrity status is enhanced with an hour spot on local radio station- Connemara FM. Managed to cram in 6 songs and some inane chat with local legend and presenter Jonh Dunne. John is a poet and a crazy dancer. You can see him on You tube.
A band has approached me about working the ski season with them in France so I'll use the CD from the show as a demo. A new adverture may await! I'll be departing Clifden in 3 days and that will end by 6 week and 2 day stay. Been invited back for October and Christmas.
Back to the running- so yes I did the Kingstown, Sky road loop- roughly 12 miles and very mountainous. Had to walk toward the end but kept jogging after a few mins. Still- if you'd ask me a couple of months ago would I attempt 12 miles I'd be laughing into my pint..
Still doing Gym work and some shorter miles too, a 3 and a 4 miler.
Next week is 14 miles- or 23 kms. I have the route mapped out but the thought of it is making me shudder. Its pissin out of he heavens here..
A band has approached me about working the ski season with them in France so I'll use the CD from the show as a demo. A new adverture may await! I'll be departing Clifden in 3 days and that will end by 6 week and 2 day stay. Been invited back for October and Christmas.
Back to the running- so yes I did the Kingstown, Sky road loop- roughly 12 miles and very mountainous. Had to walk toward the end but kept jogging after a few mins. Still- if you'd ask me a couple of months ago would I attempt 12 miles I'd be laughing into my pint..
Still doing Gym work and some shorter miles too, a 3 and a 4 miler.
Next week is 14 miles- or 23 kms. I have the route mapped out but the thought of it is making me shudder. Its pissin out of he heavens here..
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
10 miler, and a two day bender.
Don't do things by half. Seems to be a trait..
This could be a revolution in marathon training methods. Had one of the best parties and craic ever in Roundstone (about 25 ks from Clifden) this weekend- Great party, no sleep, cool people, and and all day bender consuming my body weight in Guiness.
Kind to myself, just swimming and gym work for two days but today I woke up at 8am. Why? Could be a trick by the devil.
But I was raring to go- had brekkie and did the vey hilly main loop around Clifden- between 10 and 11 miles. Torture yep, but here I sit. Had to walk after all the climbing toward the end of the run but was happy with covering the distance in 2 1/2 hours.
Despite my best efforts to the contrary I am still on course for this marathon, but the hard work starts here.
This could be a revolution in marathon training methods. Had one of the best parties and craic ever in Roundstone (about 25 ks from Clifden) this weekend- Great party, no sleep, cool people, and and all day bender consuming my body weight in Guiness.
Kind to myself, just swimming and gym work for two days but today I woke up at 8am. Why? Could be a trick by the devil.
But I was raring to go- had brekkie and did the vey hilly main loop around Clifden- between 10 and 11 miles. Torture yep, but here I sit. Had to walk after all the climbing toward the end of the run but was happy with covering the distance in 2 1/2 hours.
Despite my best efforts to the contrary I am still on course for this marathon, but the hard work starts here.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Could this be..consis ten cy?
Well it certainly rhymes.
3rd week in Clifden.
A 3 mile run up hills,
A game of football
a 5 miler jog
and the loop of the sky road again- about 8 miles.
Really enjoying the running and using the sauna/ cold shower/sauna/ cold shower/ sauna
I keep getting offered more gigs in Mullarkeys- aside from the 5 nights I play in the Station house, I will be playing Mannions on Tuesday and then Mullarkeys, hosting Open Mike nite on Thurs with a crazy jazz pianist and leprechaun drummer. Saturday I play with rodrigo as the Early Reflections and Sunday as Kybosh with Cian.
I cannot drink fast enough to keep up with all the cash 'll get for this..
Anyway, getting fitter, leaner and stamina is imprtoving but sleep patterns are all over the gaff
3rd week in Clifden.
A 3 mile run up hills,
A game of football
a 5 miler jog
and the loop of the sky road again- about 8 miles.
Really enjoying the running and using the sauna/ cold shower/sauna/ cold shower/ sauna
I keep getting offered more gigs in Mullarkeys- aside from the 5 nights I play in the Station house, I will be playing Mannions on Tuesday and then Mullarkeys, hosting Open Mike nite on Thurs with a crazy jazz pianist and leprechaun drummer. Saturday I play with rodrigo as the Early Reflections and Sunday as Kybosh with Cian.
I cannot drink fast enough to keep up with all the cash 'll get for this..
Anyway, getting fitter, leaner and stamina is imprtoving but sleep patterns are all over the gaff
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Training in earnest in the Wesht
For once I have something positive to say about my training this week!
I have been to the gym and pool nearly every day, with sauna and Jacuzzi of course..
However, I ran the sky road loop which is a hilly 9 miles with spectacular views of the Cliffs and coastline. I was out for just under 2 hours. I had to walk perhaps a mile of it, but managed a sustained sprint for last 1/2 Kilometre which was pleasing.. I couldn't make the race on Sat 18th so a couple of day later I ran the beach road, ascending for what seemed like an eternity to the Sky Road. That was a 4 miler and a lot of climbing.
So , when I look at the training schedule, I can see that I am at a level which would mean half way through the recommended training schedule, so I am doing OK.
Definately slimmer and stronger now, although still drinking and smoking but that doesnt seem to effect me that much?!
So next week will start with a short run (4 miles) and then a longer run (10 -11 miles) later.
Lets hope I stay injury free as its a very nice way of getting to know an area.. you can appreciate it better when labouring through every step :-)
I have been to the gym and pool nearly every day, with sauna and Jacuzzi of course..
However, I ran the sky road loop which is a hilly 9 miles with spectacular views of the Cliffs and coastline. I was out for just under 2 hours. I had to walk perhaps a mile of it, but managed a sustained sprint for last 1/2 Kilometre which was pleasing.. I couldn't make the race on Sat 18th so a couple of day later I ran the beach road, ascending for what seemed like an eternity to the Sky Road. That was a 4 miler and a lot of climbing.
So , when I look at the training schedule, I can see that I am at a level which would mean half way through the recommended training schedule, so I am doing OK.
Definately slimmer and stronger now, although still drinking and smoking but that doesnt seem to effect me that much?!
So next week will start with a short run (4 miles) and then a longer run (10 -11 miles) later.
Lets hope I stay injury free as its a very nice way of getting to know an area.. you can appreciate it better when labouring through every step :-)
Monday, July 13, 2009
How the concept can turn to reality
Well now!
Bringing the intention of becoming fit to fruition is being hampered by a very active social scene involving tasty black pints in Clifden. Its a great spot, and the piano and guitar are going great..
I have access daily to the pool and gym so I did a run on Weds and used the gym and pool all other days due to the weather.,.
Giving up smoking again, due to the effect it is having on my voice- 5 days singing and partying,its gone totally hoarse on the high register.
Have my patches and The Gamucci faux cigarette to help me with this so motivated now.
FIRST RACE Sunday 18th July- 5 miler so nothing too hard and I'll prob drive back down for the race Sat after "work" 2 hours of piano Sat night..
Home in Mellowes Quay for a few days and catch up with Gill.
Bringing the intention of becoming fit to fruition is being hampered by a very active social scene involving tasty black pints in Clifden. Its a great spot, and the piano and guitar are going great..
I have access daily to the pool and gym so I did a run on Weds and used the gym and pool all other days due to the weather.,.
Giving up smoking again, due to the effect it is having on my voice- 5 days singing and partying,its gone totally hoarse on the high register.
Have my patches and The Gamucci faux cigarette to help me with this so motivated now.
FIRST RACE Sunday 18th July- 5 miler so nothing too hard and I'll prob drive back down for the race Sat after "work" 2 hours of piano Sat night..
Home in Mellowes Quay for a few days and catch up with Gill.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
The Clifden Weeks- gearing it up
Ok. Nows the time to shine.
Beautiful Connemara scenery, days are free, air is clear, body is....full of Guiness
Did 2 miles today and 6 Guiness.
If I can reverse the ratio we'll be doing ok
So piano playing for a living is a GREAT job. I work 2 hours a day, and get free apartment, meals, gym/ pool/ scenery/ staff priced pints and lots of free time.
My sister who has a the lungs of a shrew just completed 20k so its time get real people
Beautiful Connemara scenery, days are free, air is clear, body is....full of Guiness
Did 2 miles today and 6 Guiness.
If I can reverse the ratio we'll be doing ok
So piano playing for a living is a GREAT job. I work 2 hours a day, and get free apartment, meals, gym/ pool/ scenery/ staff priced pints and lots of free time.
My sister who has a the lungs of a shrew just completed 20k so its time get real people
Monday, May 11, 2009
The Fallow Piano weeks
Dear Marathon diary,
My training schedule has only included tag rugby matches and tennis games up and until 11th May 2009. I realise this is not good enough, but there has been mitigating circumstances- honest!
I have been practicing hard for a solo piano gig in Clifden station house hotel for July and August which I auditioned for May 7th and won, so very happy about guaranteed work. Kybosh is back on track with 5 gigs for May.
Will be back to the runs and the circuits today.
My training schedule has only included tag rugby matches and tennis games up and until 11th May 2009. I realise this is not good enough, but there has been mitigating circumstances- honest!
I have been practicing hard for a solo piano gig in Clifden station house hotel for July and August which I auditioned for May 7th and won, so very happy about guaranteed work. Kybosh is back on track with 5 gigs for May.
Will be back to the runs and the circuits today.
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Fit Easter Bunny... Week 10 - April 10th - 17th
Dear Marathon Diary,
Well how the months creep on and the fitness stays reasonably static, really need to push on a gear or two and the circuit training is back in force to aid that.
We had Easter to contend with, and I don't know about you, but in our family home, it means plenty of eating drinking and merriment, this year involving copious games of scrabble. However, I didn't fully neglect my duties towards my regime.
I completed the week of circuits and a good 3 mile run around punchestown racecourse and another 35 minute run with a circuit in between which knocked the beejesus out of me.
Still smoking unfortunately..
Got offered a 6 week job playing piano in Connemara in the summer, all expenses paid..hmmm.
Also developed a taste for Texas hold 'em in the Casino so I am going through some fairly weird changes at the moment- all potentially devasting to my marathon goals but I just have to get through it. Chelsea had a great week beating Liverpool in Champs league QF and Arsenal in FA Cup SF. Go on the blues!
I am sleeping in until lunchtime and beyond at that has to stop as I ramp up the piano playing with a goal in sight. So I will get up at 10am and run / do a circuit each day to combat this as a postive change to my lifestyle. Watch this space.
Well how the months creep on and the fitness stays reasonably static, really need to push on a gear or two and the circuit training is back in force to aid that.
We had Easter to contend with, and I don't know about you, but in our family home, it means plenty of eating drinking and merriment, this year involving copious games of scrabble. However, I didn't fully neglect my duties towards my regime.
I completed the week of circuits and a good 3 mile run around punchestown racecourse and another 35 minute run with a circuit in between which knocked the beejesus out of me.
Still smoking unfortunately..
Got offered a 6 week job playing piano in Connemara in the summer, all expenses paid..hmmm.
Also developed a taste for Texas hold 'em in the Casino so I am going through some fairly weird changes at the moment- all potentially devasting to my marathon goals but I just have to get through it. Chelsea had a great week beating Liverpool in Champs league QF and Arsenal in FA Cup SF. Go on the blues!
I am sleeping in until lunchtime and beyond at that has to stop as I ramp up the piano playing with a goal in sight. So I will get up at 10am and run / do a circuit each day to combat this as a postive change to my lifestyle. Watch this space.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Week 9 - April 2nd -9th. The Good, the bad and the plan
Eventful, yes, certainly... caved in on the smokes, not proud, lasted nearly two weeks, pretty poor show.
That's the bad.
And the good?
Hip flexor injury magically cleared up- tentatively played in our tag rugby game and had a good game, we won 46 -9 which is mammoth. Everybody all smiles and no more so than me as no flare up on acceleration.
Monday off.
Tuesday, full game of football where I was constantly going and scored and made loads of goals whilst doing a lot of tracking back and marking. Very happy.
Weds. Finally get to start my circuits and did 3 rounds. Chelsea beat the Pool at Anfield 3-1 in Champs league. Delighted!
Thursday- first run out in a while- went down Coyningham road and ran back through the park.. was a comfortable 1/2 hour with no problem, could have done more and will do.
Entered into the 3 pre Marathon races and will consider another 10k.
Dates: 17th May- not confirmed as yet 10k
21 July 10k confirmed
27 August 10 mile confirmed
21 Sept Half marathon confirmed
26 Oct Marathon... not confirmed.
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Injury Disaster, but remain off the smokes
25 March to 1 April.. Week 8
Two months into this madness and I have gotten an injury- flared up by the Tag game and training. A muscle pull near my hip on my right leg. This is a warning to look after myself if I want to complete this marathon program.
On Tuesday I had to play in goal for football due to the pain and I had to retire after 2 games of tennis on Thursday as I couldn't turn. Haven't done the circuits due to the explosive action triggering off the pain in the leg...so only logical alternative..... REST. But it's hard, especially when you have built up a head of steam.
So an hour walk in Howth and a brief spell swimming are the only things to report this week. And a very boozy night on Monday and a LOT of music work getting demos together and trying to get gigs booked.
On a positive note, thats two weeks off the fags but the cravings can get severe.. but I gotta keep the faith!
Hope to be fit by Sunday for Tag, but won't hold my breath on that. Will do more harm than good if only semi healed. Sense and sensibility at 30 eh?
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
NEW PLAN-- CIRCUITS!
There is 7 week circuit plan devised by the royal marines which I really get into.
I am commencing it back again.
In 20 seconds I can do:
20 Half sits
20 Dorsal Raises
19 Press ups
14 Squat Thrusts
10 Sit ups
8 Step ups
10 side bends
18 Crunchies
I have to half the amount of each (i.e do 10 halfsits, 10 dorsals, 9 press ups etc) in 3 consecutive circuits with no rest. Should take about 6 mins or so, and aim to reduce that time by 3/4 within 4 weeks AND by 2/3 in 7 weeks. Fun times- and it will really build up my core which is so important for running
I have obtained a muscle pull on my thigh after the tag rugby game on Friday and will have to respect it/ ice and rest it to allow it to heal.
4 days off the smokes so far, so over the first major hump. The next major hump is the first upcoming piss up!
I am commencing it back again.
In 20 seconds I can do:
20 Half sits
20 Dorsal Raises
19 Press ups
14 Squat Thrusts
10 Sit ups
8 Step ups
10 side bends
18 Crunchies
I have to half the amount of each (i.e do 10 halfsits, 10 dorsals, 9 press ups etc) in 3 consecutive circuits with no rest. Should take about 6 mins or so, and aim to reduce that time by 3/4 within 4 weeks AND by 2/3 in 7 weeks. Fun times- and it will really build up my core which is so important for running
I have obtained a muscle pull on my thigh after the tag rugby game on Friday and will have to respect it/ ice and rest it to allow it to heal.
4 days off the smokes so far, so over the first major hump. The next major hump is the first upcoming piss up!
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Week 7 - March 17th - 23rd.. Great weather, Tag starts, off the smokes
Well well well,
It was a great week of sport, achievements, gigs, parties and music, if unemployed life stays this good I might get addicted..
Tuesday: St patricks day and a sunny warm one! Cycled into Phoenix Park with Gill and jogged for 25 mins.. I hour of excercise
Great gig in the dew drop even though Cian lost his voice through the epidemic of Man Flu.
Weds: Not much to report here..
Thurs: Double whammy 2 and a half hours on court as I eventually beat my pop 6-3, 2-6, 6-3 in tennis and tag rugby training for the upcoming spring league which was an hour of running.
Friday: Rest
Saturday: Out on the tiles with Ireland winning the grand slam and Brian Wafers 36th birthday. Bed at 8am.. plenty of excercise for my fingers playing guitar all night..
Sunday: Played first game of tag rugby and we won 20 -7, and despite being still drunk I scored a try and played well.. more drink is the secret to success?? GAVE THE SMOKES up!! Long my it last, and I should reap the benefits in the coming months.. delighted to be free
It was a great week of sport, achievements, gigs, parties and music, if unemployed life stays this good I might get addicted..
Tuesday: St patricks day and a sunny warm one! Cycled into Phoenix Park with Gill and jogged for 25 mins.. I hour of excercise
Great gig in the dew drop even though Cian lost his voice through the epidemic of Man Flu.
Weds: Not much to report here..
Thurs: Double whammy 2 and a half hours on court as I eventually beat my pop 6-3, 2-6, 6-3 in tennis and tag rugby training for the upcoming spring league which was an hour of running.
Friday: Rest
Saturday: Out on the tiles with Ireland winning the grand slam and Brian Wafers 36th birthday. Bed at 8am.. plenty of excercise for my fingers playing guitar all night..
Sunday: Played first game of tag rugby and we won 20 -7, and despite being still drunk I scored a try and played well.. more drink is the secret to success?? GAVE THE SMOKES up!! Long my it last, and I should reap the benefits in the coming months.. delighted to be free
Monday, March 16, 2009
Week 6 - March 10th - March 17th
After a comparitively light week in week 5 and wayyyy too much eating and drinking and sitting at a table all weekend in London, I came back on Tuesday and had a good game of football for 1 1/2 hours on Tuesday.
On Thursday I was on court for 1 1/2 hours playing tennis with my father (another 2 set draw!) and on Monday I had a good 45 minute ramble through Dublin city centre.
I have a gig with Kybosh on Tuesday (St Patricks day) and we have 5 new songs to learn for the set.
General feeling is I am pretty fit now but really have to quit the coffin nails (smokes) and I am sure that will be a great benefit to me. I get very tetchy when quitting so I need to pick my time, but it will be soon. Watch this space!
On Thursday I was on court for 1 1/2 hours playing tennis with my father (another 2 set draw!) and on Monday I had a good 45 minute ramble through Dublin city centre.
I have a gig with Kybosh on Tuesday (St Patricks day) and we have 5 new songs to learn for the set.
General feeling is I am pretty fit now but really have to quit the coffin nails (smokes) and I am sure that will be a great benefit to me. I get very tetchy when quitting so I need to pick my time, but it will be soon. Watch this space!
March 2nd - March 9th
Dear Diary,
It was a sporty week with one game of football and some gym work with solid abs and spin class. Only one 1/2 hour run this week as I prepared for the internet seminar in London at the weekend.
It was a sporty week with one game of football and some gym work with solid abs and spin class. Only one 1/2 hour run this week as I prepared for the internet seminar in London at the weekend.
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Week 4 24 Feb - 1 March
Well I told ya it was going to be a good week!
Mon: 20 mins Jog to and from college
Tues 1/2 hour Step aerobics, 20 mins abs and 1 hour fottball
Weds Rest
Thurs: 10 Jog, from city gate phoenix park to castleknock gate and back.. great feeling, spent just over 1 1/4 hours on the road.
Friday: Great performance in one hour football
SAT Sun, Party and rest!
Note: have developed a funny rash and I think it is shingles.. probably unrelated to the training but havent gone to the doc.. no side effects apart from a little bit sore when clothes touch the rash.. so this is diseaseboy signing out..
Mon: 20 mins Jog to and from college
Tues 1/2 hour Step aerobics, 20 mins abs and 1 hour fottball
Weds Rest
Thurs: 10 Jog, from city gate phoenix park to castleknock gate and back.. great feeling, spent just over 1 1/4 hours on the road.
Friday: Great performance in one hour football
SAT Sun, Party and rest!
Note: have developed a funny rash and I think it is shingles.. probably unrelated to the training but havent gone to the doc.. no side effects apart from a little bit sore when clothes touch the rash.. so this is diseaseboy signing out..
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Week 3 Feb 16 - 23
Dear Diary,
I must confess I cross trained quite a bit this week and didn't run as much as I should have. I find myself so busy now that I'm unemployed.. and I had a gig to prepare for in the Dew Drop Inn...
But I played football on Tues and Friday, managed 2 20 minute jaunts and a nice long 1 1/2 hour walk on Saturday through the backroads of Kildare with my mother.. gorgeous day!
The gig went great on Saturday night and pleased to say they invited us back. The band is a two man show with Cian Mekitarian and myself on vocals/guitars, playing some good covers and we are called Kaibosh. More on that as it develops.
Week 4 is going to be a cracker..promise!
I must confess I cross trained quite a bit this week and didn't run as much as I should have. I find myself so busy now that I'm unemployed.. and I had a gig to prepare for in the Dew Drop Inn...
But I played football on Tues and Friday, managed 2 20 minute jaunts and a nice long 1 1/2 hour walk on Saturday through the backroads of Kildare with my mother.. gorgeous day!
The gig went great on Saturday night and pleased to say they invited us back. The band is a two man show with Cian Mekitarian and myself on vocals/guitars, playing some good covers and we are called Kaibosh. More on that as it develops.
Week 4 is going to be a cracker..promise!
Sunday, February 15, 2009
The second week (Feb 9- 15)
Life gets in the way with pleasant distractions..
Monday: Ah week two, its not quite as cold and a definate feeling that spring may well come around in the coming days. Commenced the week with a nice easy 30 mins jog. The old man an I play tennis once every few weeks so he took me on and beat me 6-2, 1-6 and 6-3. A humbling loss for me but I will resolve to get even!
Tuesday: I played football for 1 hour and was absolutely wrecked in the last 20 minutes of that hour. But I was amazing in the first 8 minutes.
Weds: REST as I was really feeling the last two days exertion. Very conscious of not over-doing it and risking injury. Hamstrings really tight so plenty of strectching throughout the day.
Thursday: Its my first variable pace running session. Picked a quiet circuit of the park and ran 10 mins until a light sweat was up. Then 1 minute fast pace, followed by 1 minute jog. Repeat 5 times (10 mins) 5 min cool down and stretch. Very tiring but felt good after the challenge, obviously once my lungs had remembered to breathe again.
Friday: in a panic to prepare for my fathers wedding tomorrow. We are having a Stags night out tonight and he is staying in my house. Kept drinking til 6am. Elbow is well excercised.
Saturday: Wedding was great craic and my father is now twice married and I have a whole new family by law. Great day and night and great to see relatives again. Elbow was sore from yesterdays workout but it was a trooper and got me through again. Legs saw some action on the dance floor. Bed by 5am
Sunday: I would like to say that I did the right thing and sweated out the weekends excesses, but this would not be an honest blog if I did that. Turned into a happy cabbage on the couch and dreamt of a seriously challenging start to week 3. Bring it on.
Monday: Ah week two, its not quite as cold and a definate feeling that spring may well come around in the coming days. Commenced the week with a nice easy 30 mins jog. The old man an I play tennis once every few weeks so he took me on and beat me 6-2, 1-6 and 6-3. A humbling loss for me but I will resolve to get even!
Tuesday: I played football for 1 hour and was absolutely wrecked in the last 20 minutes of that hour. But I was amazing in the first 8 minutes.
Weds: REST as I was really feeling the last two days exertion. Very conscious of not over-doing it and risking injury. Hamstrings really tight so plenty of strectching throughout the day.
Thursday: Its my first variable pace running session. Picked a quiet circuit of the park and ran 10 mins until a light sweat was up. Then 1 minute fast pace, followed by 1 minute jog. Repeat 5 times (10 mins) 5 min cool down and stretch. Very tiring but felt good after the challenge, obviously once my lungs had remembered to breathe again.
Friday: in a panic to prepare for my fathers wedding tomorrow. We are having a Stags night out tonight and he is staying in my house. Kept drinking til 6am. Elbow is well excercised.
Saturday: Wedding was great craic and my father is now twice married and I have a whole new family by law. Great day and night and great to see relatives again. Elbow was sore from yesterdays workout but it was a trooper and got me through again. Legs saw some action on the dance floor. Bed by 5am
Sunday: I would like to say that I did the right thing and sweated out the weekends excesses, but this would not be an honest blog if I did that. Turned into a happy cabbage on the couch and dreamt of a seriously challenging start to week 3. Bring it on.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
The First Week (Feb 2nd - Feb 9th)
Well we gotta get started sometime..
Day one Monday: Redundant with no reduncay payoff. Unemployed. Could slink into string vest complete with yesterdays pot noodle stains but resist the urge. Crawl out of bed and search online where to find a good pair of running shoes. Seems like people in the know prefer Asics and that a shop in Terenure called Sportsworld has these and are dedicated to running types of people.
So I get dressed and run...to the car... and drive to get some very nice personal service and a pair of size 9 Asics Kayonos. Apparently great cushioning. I had a back injury in December and could hardly move for weeks, so this seems like €130 well spent..
Dragged my girlfriend Gillian away from her business- she is a personal stylist, www.eyeforstyle.ie (for those interested in looking good )and is generally busy and we jogged in the phoenix park for 20 mins.
Day Two Tuesday. Spent a delightful day browsing the shops in the city centre. Snow everywhere. Bought a Marathon Handbook, complete with hellish training regimes and what are meant to be inspiring stories of athletes finishing the Marathon in the same time it takes to figure out an episode of Lost. It also siad it is important to have rest days, so I followed that advice and did NO TRAINING. Pure hero.
Day Three Wednesday. Here's where it gets interesting. I put my game face on between 1.30 and 2.30pm and accomplished the following: a 25 minute jog, and TWO circuits of assorted excercise on the roof of my aprtment block in full view of any residents hapening to face my way from other blocks. The joys of city centre living. Circuits went as follows:
10 x Press ups
10 x sit ups
10 x Squat thrusts
10 x Tricep dips (on fence)
10 x Back extensions
10 x Crunchies
10 x Close arm press ups
Run up 4 flights of stairs
Have cigarette and gloat.
Day 4 Thursday. As I live within 10 minutes of the Phoenix Park in Dublin, apparently Europes largest park in one of its smallest countries, I decide to do some jogging there. Feeling good and no ill effects from the circuits yesterday. Manage to keep going for 30 mins before wishing I was at home nursing my lungs.
Day 5 Friday. I am going to a seminar on setting up an E Business so I cycle to the RDS in Ballsbridge.. roughly 5k. After the seminar (which was all seated) I cycle to the gym to do some free weights and use the stepper machine as it is is low impact. I also did some swimming. All very relaxed though but very happy with my application to the cause to date.
Day 6 Saturday. The weekends here. My mate Simons had his birthday yesterday, drinks were had, semiar on again this morning, cycle there less enthusiastically. Cycle back. Tired. Head too full of information from seminar, legs too hevy from past days exersions..
Day 7. Sunday. Gods day. we must rest. on religious grounds. Ahem.. er Amen.
Day one Monday: Redundant with no reduncay payoff. Unemployed. Could slink into string vest complete with yesterdays pot noodle stains but resist the urge. Crawl out of bed and search online where to find a good pair of running shoes. Seems like people in the know prefer Asics and that a shop in Terenure called Sportsworld has these and are dedicated to running types of people.
So I get dressed and run...to the car... and drive to get some very nice personal service and a pair of size 9 Asics Kayonos. Apparently great cushioning. I had a back injury in December and could hardly move for weeks, so this seems like €130 well spent..
Dragged my girlfriend Gillian away from her business- she is a personal stylist, www.eyeforstyle.ie (for those interested in looking good )and is generally busy and we jogged in the phoenix park for 20 mins.
Day Two Tuesday. Spent a delightful day browsing the shops in the city centre. Snow everywhere. Bought a Marathon Handbook, complete with hellish training regimes and what are meant to be inspiring stories of athletes finishing the Marathon in the same time it takes to figure out an episode of Lost. It also siad it is important to have rest days, so I followed that advice and did NO TRAINING. Pure hero.
Day Three Wednesday. Here's where it gets interesting. I put my game face on between 1.30 and 2.30pm and accomplished the following: a 25 minute jog, and TWO circuits of assorted excercise on the roof of my aprtment block in full view of any residents hapening to face my way from other blocks. The joys of city centre living. Circuits went as follows:
10 x Press ups
10 x sit ups
10 x Squat thrusts
10 x Tricep dips (on fence)
10 x Back extensions
10 x Crunchies
10 x Close arm press ups
Run up 4 flights of stairs
Have cigarette and gloat.
Day 4 Thursday. As I live within 10 minutes of the Phoenix Park in Dublin, apparently Europes largest park in one of its smallest countries, I decide to do some jogging there. Feeling good and no ill effects from the circuits yesterday. Manage to keep going for 30 mins before wishing I was at home nursing my lungs.
Day 5 Friday. I am going to a seminar on setting up an E Business so I cycle to the RDS in Ballsbridge.. roughly 5k. After the seminar (which was all seated) I cycle to the gym to do some free weights and use the stepper machine as it is is low impact. I also did some swimming. All very relaxed though but very happy with my application to the cause to date.
Day 6 Saturday. The weekends here. My mate Simons had his birthday yesterday, drinks were had, semiar on again this morning, cycle there less enthusiastically. Cycle back. Tired. Head too full of information from seminar, legs too hevy from past days exersions..
Day 7. Sunday. Gods day. we must rest. on religious grounds. Ahem.. er Amen.
The Saga begins..
It is February in Dublin. Post Christmas, mid credit crunch, everyone scurrying home to avoid the snow, dark, miserable weather, dark miserable news everywhere.
I have just joined the ever expanding ranks of the unemployed when my Company had to trim costs due to the unfavourable economic climate.
The celtic tiger economy suddenly seems a preposterous notion- much like another notion that had cropped up into my head over the past few weeks.. to run the Dublin Marathon in October. What had come over me? I had turned 30 in October. I am still smoking, drinking, and liking takeaways far too much.
I, Rowland Smithers am not known for running any length of distance, or for having the discipline, endurance and sheer guts to follow through with a training program of this magnitude. I only skulk to the gym to use the sauna facilities.
So this is a blog of one mans struggle to live up to the expectation of his crazy notion, to bring some light back into February and maybe inspire a soul or two along the way.. bring on the plan, the pain and the encouragement and ridicule..
I have just joined the ever expanding ranks of the unemployed when my Company had to trim costs due to the unfavourable economic climate.
The celtic tiger economy suddenly seems a preposterous notion- much like another notion that had cropped up into my head over the past few weeks.. to run the Dublin Marathon in October. What had come over me? I had turned 30 in October. I am still smoking, drinking, and liking takeaways far too much.
I, Rowland Smithers am not known for running any length of distance, or for having the discipline, endurance and sheer guts to follow through with a training program of this magnitude. I only skulk to the gym to use the sauna facilities.
So this is a blog of one mans struggle to live up to the expectation of his crazy notion, to bring some light back into February and maybe inspire a soul or two along the way.. bring on the plan, the pain and the encouragement and ridicule..
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